Kudrow graduated from Vassar College in Poughkeepsie, NY with a B.S. degree in biology. Intending to pursue a career in research, she returned to Los Angeles and began working with her father, a world-renowned headache specialist. In all likelihood, Kudrow would be a researcher today if she had not been inspired to perform by one of her brother's friends, actor/comedian Jon Lovitz.

Kudrow began studying with Cynthia Szigeti, a well-known improvisation teacher based in Los Angeles. In that class she met and became close friends with then-unknown Conan O'Brien. In 1989, her dream of becoming a performer became a reality when she was accepted as a member of the famed Los Angeles improv group, The Groundlings.

A recurring role as Ursula, the ditzy waitress on the comedy series 'Mad About You,' led to Kudrow's starring role on 'Friends.'

In her free time she performs with the Transformers improv group and teaches and performs at The Groundlings.

Kudrow played varsity-level tennis in high school and college and is a pool shark. She grew up in a home that had a pool table and has mastered some of the more difficult trick shots.

For her performance as the spacey but lovable Phoebe Buffay, Lisa Kudrow has earned two Emmy Award nominations (1994-95, 1996-97) for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series. She also has received Golden Globe, Screen Actors Guild and American Comedy Award nominations.